Welcome to the beautiful, throbbing capital of Azerbaijan—Baku, the “City of Winds and a city where modern sky-scrapers leap out above walls centuries old. A few miles from the Caspian Sea, Baku is an ideal combination of ancient Silk Road history and futuristic architecture. You’ll also find yourself wandering through UNESCO-listed alleys and marveling at glass towers glowing like flames.
Whether you like history, food, or luxury travel, there is something mystical waiting for all in Baku. This useful guide by friend Travel Ginie Tours has got you covered with everything you need to know — what to expect, tips and advice to make the most of your trip, must-see attractions in Marrakech, and rest For those who wish to venture even further afield.
Why Is Baku Worth Visiting?
Think a city where Europe meets Asia (full-on smooching optional), where kebab shops can sit next to Ferrari showrooms and ancient mosques are dwarfed by LED-lit skyscrapers. That’s Baku in a nutshell.
Every corner of Baku has something to say, from the Old City (Icherisheher) to that breezy waterfront on the Caspian. Dominating the skyline are the renowned Flame Towers, which represent Azerbaijan’s deep association with fire and the futuristic design ofthe Heydar Aliyev Center by superstar architect Zaha Hadid is simply amazing.
But what sets Baku apart is the ease and affordability of visiting. Unlike in a lot of the European cities, here Baku travellers can easily enjoy ultra-luxury without spending devastating amounts. The friendliness of the locals puts an extremely homey feeling to whoever steps foot in for a visit.
What to See in Baku
Visiting Baku can feel like a trip in a time machine — you’ll walk from medieval fortresses to ultra-modern wonders in minutes.
What it is: An Eastern and Western mix: Baku beautifully combines Islamic tradition with European luxury. You’ll see cobbled streets alongside luxury boutiques, and traditional teahouses next to trendy rooftop bars.
Climate: Baku has a semi-arid climate. 1 April to 15 June and 1 September to 30 November are the best times of year—temperatures range from between $20 and $25. Summers can become hot, while winters are mild with cool sea breezes.
Local Culture: Of all the cultures, Azerbaijan has some of the most hospitable people. Think welcoming smiles, bottomless cups of tea and friendly locals willingly regaling travellers with tales of their history.
Pro Tip from Travel Ginie Tours: Some places do not take cards so carry some cash (Azerbaijani Manat) everywhere, you may need to pay for the small shops or markets.
Things to Keep in Mind While Travelling to Baku
Here are some essential need-to-know travel tips before you head to Baku that will make your trip seamless and enjoyable:
- Money: The currency in Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN). There are lots of ATMs and currency booths with good rates.
- Language: Azerbaijani is the state language; however Russian and English are widely spoken, especially in the city center.
- Public transportation: Baku Metro is cheap, safe and clean. Taxis are relatively cheap too, just remember to use apps like Bolt or Uber to prevent overcharging.
- Try: Don’t leave Baku without tasting Plov(rice pilaf),Dolma and juicy kebabs. Top off your meal with Pakhlava and a steaming pot of Azerbaijani tea.
- Security: Baku is a very safe city, the crime here low and you will be more than welcomed by the Azeris.
Top Places to Visit in Baku
Now it is time to get into the heart of your travel – The must-see landmarks in Baku. And all of these places have incredible story, appeal and local touch.
Icherisheher (Old City)
About the Place:
The Old City, or Icherisheher, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of Baku. With stone walls dating to antiquity, the neighborhood is a treasure trove of narrow cobblestone alleys, secluded courtyards, and centuries-old houses. Architectural landmarks such as the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs take you back to the 12th century. Wandering Icherisheher is like wandering through a living museum—something surprising awaits you around every corner, whether that something be an antique shop or charming cafes in nooks and crannies between ages-old walls protected beneath scrolling trumpeting.
How to Reach:
Icherisheher is at the heart of Baku. You will be dropped off directly at the entrance by the Icherisheher Metro Station. It’s also easily visited on foot from most central hotels, or by taxi.
Flame Towers
About the Place:
Plenty of cities have landmarks: think Las Vegas’s neon-lit Strip and New York City’s Times Square. When you think of today’s Baku, the Flame Towers immediately come to mind. These iconic high-rises define the cityscape, shining bright in the glow of red, orange and yellow every evening — a symbol of Azerbaijan’s early association with fire. The three towers are more than mere decoration — one is a luxury hotel, another an office building and the last residential. At more than 180 meters, they loom over the skyline—like Baku’s fiery soul and modern aspirations.
But at night, the LED skin turns into a mind-bending spectacle visible from much of the city. You will frequently see animations of flames, the national flag, or even the outline of a waving human — and that makes it fun to look at for locals as well as tourists. The interior of the Fairmont Baku Hotel boasts an amazing panoramic view of the Caspian sea and city below.
How to Reach Flame Towers:
Perched atop a hill overlooking the bay, from nearly any spot in central Baku you can see the Flame Towers. A short taxi ride from Fountain Square will put you on the boulevard, or take a ride on the Funicular Railway which links the boulevard with the towers. The best time to do this is at sunset, when the city lights begin to dance and the towers light up with their fiery glow.
Baku Boulevard (National Park)
About the Place:
The Bazar Boulevard, or National Park is one of the oldest and longest parks in Asia. Lining the Caspian Sea, it’s a handsome waterfront of gardens, cafes, funfair rides and fountains. Developed in 1909, this boulevard is a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of city center life, especially for an evening walk.
Along the seafront promenad,e you’ll find such landmarks as the Baku Eye Ferris Wheel, Little Venice (a canal system with gondolas), and the eye-catching Carpet Museum, which is a building that looks like a rolled-up carpet. You can even take a short cruise on the Caspian Sea from the boulevard’s marina.
How to Reach Baku Boulevard:
The boulevard is set parallel to Neftchilar Avenue, and you can reach it easily via the metro—simply disembark at Sahil Station. The Flame Towers, the Old City and most of Baku’s central attractions are within walking distance.
Heydar Aliyev Center
About the Place:
One of the most iconic buildings is the Heydar Aliyev Center, a masterpiece designed by Zaha Hadid. The building is a fluid, wave-like form that appears to challenge gravity and exemplifies the future-oriented mental atmosphere of the country. Inside, it encompasses an exhibition hall, a museum and a concert hall.
The museum displays the culture, art and accomplishments of Azerbaijan in both what’s inside and outside – its surrounding park with futuristic sculptures is great for photography! If you’re not a fan of architecture, this masterpiece will change your mind, most likely with its stunning design and creative energies.
How to Get to Heydar Aliyev Center:
Located on Heydar Aliyev Avenue, it is about a 10-minute drive from the city center. It’s accessible by taxi, private car or local bus. To visitors who prefer public transportation: you will have to get off at Nariman Narimanov metro station, and go for a brief walk.
Ateshgah Fire Temple
About the Place:
Ateshgah Fire Temple One of the quirkier historical places in Azerbaijan lies at Surakhani, on the outskirts of Baku. This 17th-century complex, called the “Fire Temple of Baku,” was a site of worship for Zoroastrians, Hindus and Sikhs. The temple was constructed over a natural gas vent, which led to flames burning perpetually — the phenomenon that in part gave Azerbaijan its nickname, “The Land of Fire.”
The architecture is a combination of Indian and Persian styles, with an open courtyard enclosed by stone cells, and a central altar for the performance of fire rituals. The natural gas flames were put out once and for all in the 19th century, yet still the temple stands as a potent symbol of the country’s mystical heritage.
How to Get To the Ateshgah Fire Temple:
The temple is located approximately 30 km away from city center. You can get there by taxi or sign up for a guided tour (with an agency like Travel Ginie Tours that combines Ateshgah and Yanar Dag in a day trip). Public buses departing from Koroglu Metro Station also travel in that direction to Surakhani, but a private ride is more comfortable and convenient.
Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain)
About the Place:
Yanar Dag – the Burning Mountain Among Azerbaijan’s natural miracles is Yanar Dag, which translates into “Burning Mountain”. It’s a hillside on fire, perpetually so, because natural gas seeps from the ground. The blaze, which can rise several meters high, has been raging for decades and never extinguishes — not during rain or snow.
Camping visitors might best experience the fiery wonder at night, when the flames put off an otherworldly glow against the dark backdrop. It’s no wonder Azerbaijan is often referred to as the “Land of ”Fire”—flames like these have captured the imagination of travelers for centuries. Nearby is a little museum that details the science and folklore behind the eternal fire.
How to Reach Yanar Dag:
Only about 25 km from Baku, Yanar Dag is accessible by taxi or tours. With comfortable transport and informed guides, Travel Ginie Tours fabulous city steeped in rich history and tales to tell. If you’d rather travel on your own, taxis from the city center are abundant and reasonably priced.
Gobustan Rock Art Museum and Mud Volcanoes
About the Place:
For thrill-seekers, it’s a no-brainer to check out Gobustan National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the home of some 6,000 prehistoric rock engravings dating to a staggering 40,000 years ago. The petroglyphs show early humans as well animals, hunting scenes and representations of constellations.
A short drive away are the Mud Volcanoes—ultracool mud bubbles and burps from beneath earth. Azerbaijan is home to almost half the world’s mud volcanoes, and it’s surreal walking on another planet! For someone who takes photos, it’s a photographer’s dream, and an unforgettable natural spectacle to be sure.
How to Reach Gobustan:
Gobustan is located some 65 km to the southwest of Baku. You can drive there or book a day tour with Travel Ginie Tours, which includes both Gobustan and the mud volcanoes. Public transportation can be a pain navigating to this route, so I highly recommend taking a guided tour for an easier trip.
How to Explore Baku on Your Own
You may find the capital city of Baku a very interesting and rewarding place to explore on your own. The city is secure, accessible and convenient for pedestrians. Embark on a morning walking tour of Fountain Square and Nizami Street for an introduction to Baku’s boutiques, cafes and art galleries.
For an authentic local experience, take a ride on the Baku Metro—it’s clean, cheap, and will give you a peek into normal Azerbaijani life. Or rent a bike or scooter, and zip along the boulevard and coastal areas. Rely on apps like Google Maps, Maps. me, or Bolt for added convenience.
If you’re a photography aficionado, the early mornings and evenings are ideal for capturing Baku’s breathtaking architecture and sea views. Feel free to strike up a conversation with the locals — many are willing to offer up stories or suggest lesser-known treasures.
Close Destinations from Azerbaijan
If you are willing for an extended stay, a few interesting itineraries are just across the border from Azerbaijan:
- Georgia Tbilisi: One-hour flight or overnight train from Baku; its charming streets, historic churches, and vibrant nightlife will win your heart.
- Iran: In Tabriz, you will find Persian architecture, colorful bazaars, and mountain landscapes.
- Russia: Derbent is one of the oldest cities in Russia, with ancient fortresses and the ambiance of Caspian coastal spirituality.
- Guba and Qabala are the towns in the mountains that can be visited while in Azerbaijan. They are best for rambling, waterfall, and traditional Azerbaijani dishes.
Moreover, Travel Ginie Tours also give cross-border trips and local day tours from Baku.
FAQs
- Is Baku expensive? It is not! Unlike most European capitals, Baku is cheap. Hotels, transport, and food are affordable.
- Do I require an Azerbaijan visa? Many countries allow to have e-visa, which needs online applications and is easily obtainable.
- Is Baku safe? It is one of the safest in the region, even for solo women travelers.
- What is the appropriate time? April-June in Spring or September-November in Autumn.
- What’s the dress code in Baku? You are required to dress without exposure when traveling to religious or rural locations, and informality is accepted with other modern clothing in Baku.
Conclusion
Baku isn’t just a city, it’s an experience. From the dancing flames of Yanar Dag to the blinding brilliance of the Flame Towers, each nook and cranny has a story to uncover. Baku Whether you are sauntering down ancient alleyways or cruising along the Caspian Sea, Baku will win you over with its disparate contrasts and endearing old-town allure.
Now, you can finally delve into this unparalleled destination with the assurance and convenience of Travel Ginie Tours. Don’t miss a single thing—our curated tours, handpicked guides and friendly service let you discover the best cultural gems and under-the-radar spots.